‘Daring, Indomitable Women’: The White House Celebrates International Women’s Day

Mar. 8, 2010: Singer Katharine McPhee entertains President and First Lady Obama during a reception in honor of International Women’s Day in the East Room of the White House. Other guests at the reception included Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, actress Kerry Washington, and Afghan singer Mozdah Jamalzadah.

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President and First Lady Obama enter the East Room of the White House with Council of Economic Advisers Chair Christina Romer in the background.

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During the event, First Lady Michelle Obama joked, “I get to speak first while he stands and watches. I love this.”

She turned to her husband: “Look at me adoringly.”

“I can do that,” he replied.

“With sincerity,” she added, prompting laughter.

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Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.

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Actress Kerry Washington.

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Afghan singer Mozdah Jamalzadah.

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Outgoing White House Social Secretary Desiree Rogers.

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President Obama greets guests at the reception. Obama said at the event that America’s “upward curve” has been the result of “daring, indomitable” women but highlighted the challenges women still face around the world.